Specific treatments for asthma will be determined by your child's doctor based on:
As of yet, there is no cure for asthma. However, asthma can be controlled with prescription medications that may help to prevent or relieve symptoms, and by learning ways to manage episodes.
People with asthma can learn to identify and avoid the things that trigger an episode, and educate themselves about medications and other asthma management strategies.
According to the most recent Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma, published by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute:
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The use of objective measures of lung function--spirometry, oximeters, peak flow expiratory flow rate--to access the severity of asthma, and to monitor the course of treatment.
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The use of medication therapy designed to reverse and prevent the airway inflammation component of asthma, as well as to treat the narrowing airway.
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The use of environmental control measures to avoid or eliminate factors that induce or trigger asthma flare-ups, including the consideration of immunotherapy.
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Patient education that includes a partnership among the child, family members, and the child's doctor.